SAM TORRANCE today expressed his relief after finally being allowed to break his vow of Ryder Cup silence.

The Largs legend was officially unveiled as one of Paul McGinley's vice-captains for September's clash with the USA at Gleneagles during a press conference in Dublin yesterday.

Torrance, who had been widely tipped to be on the European backroom team after being handed the GB&I captaincy by McGinley for last season's Seve Trophy, revealed that he had been given the heads up over a year ago.

And the 2002 cup-winning skipper said: "I've known for months. It's like getting an honour from The Queen; you can't tell anyone. I've probably known for a year.

"It's been a nightmare. My wife knew, as did my mum and dad...and about four bookies that would take my bet."

Torrance's captaincy skills have always been hailed by McGinley ever since the Irishman starred in the 2002 Ryder Cup and holed the winning putt.

Torrance, 60, added: "Paul was a special part of my team at The Belfry in 2002 and he knows I will do everything possible to help him and the team at Gleneagles in September.

"If I can do a tenth for Paul's team what he did for my team, then we'll both be very happy men. I was never more proud in my career than when I put on this European sweater and it's no different this time."

Torrance will join Irish veteran Des Smyth in the European backroom team, but McGinley admitted he won't be making any further vice- captain announcements until after the team itself is finalised on September 2.

McGinley said: "I want everybody to focus on their golf over the next seven months. I'll assess where I am after that. There are probably 15 guys who will be very good as vice-captains.

"I have been very lucky to have been a vice-captain twice, but to be honest I'm a bit selfish about this. This is about formulating the best team to win this Ryder Cup.

"If I'm going to have another two vice-captains they will be current players who are still playing on tour."